Simone Padoin

Simone Padoin, a hard-working and technically gifted midfielder, began his career with the Atalanta youth academy. He was part of the club’s successful Primavera Coppa Italia victory before moving on to continue his development with Vicenza, where he made his professional debut in 2003.

His consistent performances, which had already enabled him to work his way up through Italian Under-19, Under-20 and Under-21 sides, were combined with a versatility that saw him operate as a defender.

The 30-year-old was frequently used as a left-back in Vicenza, before returning to his midfield role following a move back to Bergamo in 2007, cementing his place in the starting line-up in the process.

Padoin’s first contact with the Bianconeri came in 2010 when he took part in the club’s pre-season tour in the United States and Canada. Yet he would have to wait another 18 months to seal his dream switch.

This came in January 2012, and 18 months later Simone was celebrating two successive Scudetto-Super Cup doubles, having always provided an important contribution whenever called upon.

He ended the 2013/14 season on a personal high, getting the third consecutive title party into full swing with the winner over former employers Atalanta at Juventus Stadium.